04/03/2026
We recently had the pleasure of hosting the Acting Director of the African Union of the Blind, our very own Abraham Mateta – popularly known as Mukoma A – during a Monitoring and Evaluation visit from 25–27 February.
The visit was anything but ordinary. Conversations ranged from organizational growth, youth participation, and creative thinking in a changing socio-economic environment.
One of the highlights came on Friday when Mukoma A met with our committee advocating for Sexual and Reproductive Health Rights for blind women. The committee shared insights from their December training and spoke passionately about their work. Despite limited resources, the members made it clear: their determination is far greater than their budget.
Then came a classic Mukoma A moment.
With a mischievous smile he asked:
“As visually impaired community leaders, how do you deal with expiry dates on condoms?”
The room exploded with ideas.
Some suggested partnering with the National AIDS Council to produce Braille-labelled condoms. Others admitted that social stigma sometimes discourages blind people from requesting them openly.
After the lively debate, Mukoma A proposed a modern twist: technology. Apps such as Be My Eyes and Google Lookout can scan objects and read information aloud to blind users.
Of course, technology isn’t a magic wand because many people still lack smartphones or internet access. But as Mukoma A put it:
“Even small innovations can open big doors.”
And judging by the energy in the room, those doors are already beginning to open.
